Cordarone Extravasation Inducing Volkmann's-like Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Vascular Surgery
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cordarone (amiodarone) is a critical medication for managing cardiac arrhythmias.
• Extravasation of intravenous medications can lead to severe local tissue damage.
• Volkmann's ischemic contracture is a serious complication typically associated with forearm fractures.

Observation:

• A patient developed Volkmann's-like syndrome after extravasation of 300 mg of cordarone during cardiac arrest treatment.
• Extensive skin and soft tissue necrosis of the forearm was observed the day after the extravasation.
• Progressive muscle retraction in the forearm indicated developing contracture.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of acute soft tissue necrosis causing Volkmann's-like upper limb retraction after cordarone extravasation.
• Imaging studies confirmed the extent of tissue damage and muscular involvement.
• Literature review indicates limited data on amiodarone-induced extravasation complications.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be aware of the potential for severe local tissue injury from cordarone extravasation.
• Prompt recognition and management of cordarone extravasation are crucial to prevent irreversible limb damage.
• This case underscores the importance of careful drug administration techniques and monitoring for adverse events.